Debates useful? | Candidates seldom answer the questions

8:25 PM,
Sep. 29, 2012

Written by

Todd Rogers
and Michael I. Norton

In October's three presidential debates, President Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney will be asked a wide range of questions crucial to the future of America. But if history is any guide, they are unlikely to answer many of them. Even worse, most of us won't even notice.

Listen carefully to the questions and responses and you'll understand. A candidate is asked a specific question: "How will you balance the budget?" The response is typically along the lines of: "Balancing the budget is critical to America's future, which is why I am committed to it!" It feels like an answer; ...